***ANTLER3.2 FINAL 092012

FALL ISSUE
SEPTEMBER 2012
Deerhorn Valley Community Association
Editors:
Kim Hamilton
Ariele Johannson
Karen Koop
Promoting a safe, interconnected, and vibrant community
Register for Antler Alerts & Updates: DeerhornValley.net
Email: [email protected]
DVCA 2012 FALL FUND DRIVE
IN THIS ISSUE
THAT TIME AGAIN…
…Fall Fundraiser
Winter Gardening
Dying Oaks
Fourth of July
Neighbor News
Fire Mitigation Grants
Deerhorn Valley…
Looking Back
9-11 Memorial Stairclimb
We Are Community
Mojave Green Rattlers
“Chipper” of Deerhorn
Trunk or Treat
Classifieds
It’s Fall and time to look ahead
to 2013 in Deerhorn Valley. The
DV Community Association is
asking your support again.
If you value reading The Antler,
getting Antler Alerts, or coming
to events like Trunk or Treat,
and Sky Hunters, please help us
fund these activities. We know
times are hard, and the smallest
gift is SO appreciated. We’ve
enclosed an addressed envelope,
and thank you in advance for adding the stamp!
With a successful Fund Drive, we can plan for a
whole year. There will be no need to make every
event a money-maker. This lets us focus on
people… not ticket sales and profits.
We’ve listed what your generous donations made
possible. You contributed almost $3,000 last Fall,
and with a little help from our reserves we had a
full year of activities and projects.
We’ve enclosed an addressed envelope. Thank
you in advance for your generosity (and stamp!)
PLEASE… include any suggestions or ideas
you’d like us to consider for 2013 projects and
programs, and any feedback on how we’re doing.
Thank you, and thank you, again.
BUILDING A SAFER
COMMUNITY
We are pleased to be able
to distribute these decals to
with this Antler. Please
display it on the BACK
LEFT (driver’s) SIDE of
your vehicle bumper or
window.
This will identify you as a
DV resident during
emergencies when roads
may be restricted .
We have additional decals
at $1.50 each. You can
enclose payment with your
donation envelope. We’ll
order more as needed.
COMING UP!
We’re in the middle of planning the Second
Annual Trunk or Treat, and we’re looking
forward to another July Fourth Parade &
Picnic. But… we have some new ideas too!
HOLIDAY FEST:
CIDER, COCOA, & CAROLING
(mid-December 2012)
DEERHORN VALLEY RANCH &
GARDEN TOUR
(April-May 2013)
DVCA meets on the third Tuesday of the month
at Rob & Kim’s Estudio Colibrí. It’s a noontime
meeting with potluck goodies. If you’d like to
get more involved in the Deerhorn Valley, join
us. Give a holler to [email protected]
and we’ll put out an extra hay bale!
LOCAL POSTAL CUSTOMER
2012 DVCA BOARD
President:
Vice Pres:
Treasurer:
Secretary:
At Large:
PRSRT STD
ECRWSS
U.S. POSTAGE
PAID
EDDM Retail
Kim Hamilton
Sandra Ignosci
Sharon Gladding
Susie Norton
Karen Koop
AND STEERING COMMITTEE
Patti Maxe
Ariele Johannson
Leslie Yoder Rob Deason
Jim Norton
Vickie Kerley
Carole Bradford
DVCA
2012 INCOME & EXPENSES
FALL 2011 FUNDRAISER: +$2850
RESERVES:
+$2802
EXPENSES:
–$3928
BALANCE:
$1724
2012 EXPENSES
$1040 The Antler -- 4 issues, more pages, now in
color (printing & mailing)
$ 440 (4) Antler Postcard Reminders: Trunk-Treat,
SkyHunters, Fire Grants, July 4th
$ 305 DeerhornValley.net & Antler Alerts: (Server &
FormSmarts Subscription)
$ 394 Porta Potties, Utilities and Venue Rental
$ 134 Halloween Trunk or Treat Supplies
$ 290 Fourth of July Mini Parade & Picnic Supplies
$ 250 Sky-Hunters Program at the Red Barn
$ 275 Kruisin’ Kritters Program at the Red Barn
$ 500 Resident Decals (included with your Donation
Envelope!)
$ 300 PO Box Rental, Stamps, Paper, IPN
[Emergency Alerts], Misc. Supplies
STARTING YOUR WINTER GARDEN
RIGHT HERE IN DEERHORN VALLEY
-by Karen Koop
It’s a searing 95 degrees outside and Autumn is just one week away!
As brutal as the heat has been for the past several weeks, it’s typical for
Southern California. We’re blessed in Deerhorn Valley with summer
growing conditions that often merge well into the fall. While gardens in
other parts of the country are
being planted with fall and
winter crops, our continuing
warmer days and mild nights
often allow us to keep the
tomatoes and peppers
producing until late fall. In fact,
I can remember years ago
slicing freshly picked tomatoes
on Thanksgiving Day then
harvesting jalapenos at
Christmastime. Can’t do that in
Karen displays some of her fall harvest. Minnesota!! Though you can
now start planting various
greens, broccoli, radishes and carrots, try trimming your tomato plants,
feeding them a dose of fish fertilizer and see if you can’t coax out a few
more of those little red beauties for your fall celebrations!
Because the foothill terrain out here is so diverse, each Deerhorn
property can have a variety of microclimates that could make it very easy
or perhaps quite difficult to find the perfect location for an orchard or
garden. If you take a walk around your property on an early winter
morning, you might experience strong temperature variations, see frost
in some places, warm sunshine on higher peaks and just dew drops
elsewhere. These observations can be helpful to new gardeners when
trying to situate a growing area. Obviously, a garden should be sited in a
sunny location, though afternoon shade from nearby trees can be a
blessing for parched summer veggies. Low lying areas on a property
can become frost pockets in the winter and early spring which is great for
kale and chard, but can wipe out a beautiful set of early peach
blossoms! I learned this when, during our first year in Deerhorn I
unknowingly planted several low chill fruit trees in a field that gets more
frost than any other area of the property. Most years the blossoms
succumbed to March and April frosts or snow flurries! On the flip side, I
finally found a suitable spot for an avocado tree. Avocados typically
don’t do well out here, but I learned that Bacon avocados will withstand
temps down to 18 degrees so I
planted one on a slope that’s
protected on the east side with
tall boulders that reflect
absorbed heat from the daytime
winter sun. It’s the tree’s
second year and so far it’s
thriving. Too bad I can’t say the
same for the numerous
avocado trees I’ve tortured over
the years because I planted
them in the wrong
microclimate! The lesson for
A handful of straw atop late tomatoes
new gardeners here is to
screens them from birds and sun.
observe the changing sunlight,
temperatures, frost pockets and shade throughout the year. You might
be surprised where you can place a garden!
This summer’s recent heat wave put extra stress on thirsty plants and
overheated Deerhorn gardeners! The pepper plants loved it, but our
tomatoes were not happy! All vegetables require additional water to
thrive during the withering heat. So to conserve this precious commodity,
2
my garden beds got a thick layer of straw mulch which (thankfully!)
reduced the watering chore from daily to every other day or two. The
tomatoes were especially happy to have their toes cooled off! Since
we grow heirloom tomato varieties rather than disease resistant
hybrids, there was some disease, but not enough to prevent delicious
harvests of sweet, large fruits! In fact, some of the plants were so
prolific, my stakes and cages were no match for their weight as they
toppled over. I just let the vines sprawl which exposed much of the
fruit, making it vulnerable to bird damage and sunburn. Frustrated by
the damage I was seeing, it occurred to me one morning that if I put a
handful of the straw mulch on top of the exposed tomatoes, they’d be
hidden from the birds and screened from the sun. It’s not pretty but
this trick works and we’re still harvesting beautiful undamaged fruit.
Happy fall planting! Here’s hoping our fellow Deerhorn gardeners will
enjoy colorful platters of late harvest, home grown tomatoes next to
your Thanksgiving turkeys!
OUR DYING OAKS
-by Jerry Williams
DV’ers Jerry and Cindy Williams attended the
Gold Spotted Oak Borer presentation at the
September 11 meeting of the Jamul Planning
Group. The presenter, Dr. Tom Coleman, is a
top expert on GSOB and its destruction of our beautiful oaks. Jerry calls
on our community to take action–– while there is still some possibility of
saving uninfested trees. -KH
THE THREAT IS CRITICAL: Dr. Coleman stated the severity of this
problem very clearly: "All of your oaks are going to die from this bug if
nothing is done to stop them." Cindy and I have already lost many of
ours and I have been reluctant to cut them down, hoping that
somehow they would come back, but THEY WON'T.
NEXT APRIL-MAY: The best thing to do is take the initiative now to
contain the bugs and stop the spread of death to the rest of our trees.
In late April/early May, the bugs start exiting the holes in the trees to
go mate and lay more eggs on more oak trees. If they are locked in
plastic that can't happen! Also if the trees that they lay eggs on are
sprayed with Sevin, most of the bugs that touch
that tree will probably die. Our trees are the reason
most of us bought our properties and they are a
HUGE part of the awesome beauty of our land!
STOPPING THE SPREAD: The best way is to
debark or cut the badly infested trees down and
bag or cover the bark or logs with
heavy gauge clear or white plastic to prevent the
bugs from escaping, and they will all die. This
needs to be done prior to next May. If your tree has
more than 50 plus holes below 6' on the trunk then
that tree is probably not going to make it. Sadly,
most of our trees on our property have more than 50 holes below 6 ft.
Dr. Coleman suggests that we focus on trees with the best chance of
surviving: those with less than 30 holes on the bottom 6' of the trunks.
Can you get involved? Jerry would like to form a working group to
investigate the best practices for salvaging our surviving trees. You
can get in touch with him at [email protected]
Photos of infestations are on DeerhornValley.net. GOLD SPOTTED
OAK BORER link is in the left column.
Fourth of July Mini-Parade
A Deerhorn First-Ever
By Ariele Johannson
Photos: Art Valdivia, Rob Deason, Ariele Johannson, et al
Line up an ATV …a red and a green tractor …kids on skates …a 1912
antique International automobile …two US Marines …lawn mowers
…golf carts … Border Patrol van…folks on horseback …two little kids
driving a toy mini-Jeep … Hummer …decorated dogs … convertible,
…Fish and Game truck, …and a Jeep following our DV yellow Fire
Truck. Each decked out in red, white and blue to celebrate the Fourth
of July.
What you have is the First Annual Deerhorn Valley Community
Association (DVCA) 4th of July Mini-Parade. Twenty-five vehicles in all!
It was full of color (well, mostly the same three
colors) lots of smiling faces, excitement, and
charm.
Friendships were rekindled; new faces were
gathered into the fold. Kids of ALL ages had a
blast. Led by Sandra Ignosci, who first inspired
the DVCA, Karen Koop and volunteers worked
hard to plan this home-baked event held at
McKinley property; home of the DV Lodge, which
burned in the Harris Fire.
I think we all agree this was one of the best
birthday parties for America we have attended
and one of the best DV Events. While spectators
got ready by their gates on Elena Lane,
participants met in the staging area to assemble
the parade. Ralph and Connie McNeil welcomed
them into the Oat Field on their property. Kim
Hamilton made announcements in her tall red
and white striped hat looking like the Cat in the
Hat. Her husband, Rob Deason, was
photographer-at-large.
GOODBYE TO ARIELE
It is with sadness that I am
leaving Deerhorn Valley
and Jamul as a resident.
Financial considerations
necessitate my move to
town, where I will be
renting an apartment in La
Mesa. I will be coming
back each week to teach
my T’ai Ch’i Chuan class
at the Duffy Ranch on
Saturday mornings. I have
thoroughly enjoyed being
co-Editor and writing for
The Antler. I will never
forget you, Deerhorn
Valley… nor my friends.
-­‐Ariele Johannson Once a DV’er… always a DV’er. We expect frequent updates and occasional articles… Thank you for all you have contributed to DV. We love and will miss you, Ariele. -­KH After the parade, people parked their special
vehicles and everyone enjoyed a picnic. Coral
Thuett serenaded us with “The Star Spangled
Banner.” Volunteers Debbie Bothell, Jeff
Goodhartz, Jerry Williams and brothers Jack and Miles served snow cones, popcorn,
and cotton candy for 50 cents each. Folks sat on straw bales and had their pictures
taken at the Photo Spot decorated by Patti Maxe and her grandson, Derek Hanson.
Lots of visiting. The afternoon culminated in a pillow case race, beans-on-a-fork
game, and a watermelon-eating contest for kids.
The event was a great “vehicle” for families to explain to their kids why we celebrate
Independence Day. Special thanks to all who volunteered, participated, and
attended. Just one more reason to love living here in Deerhorn.
What a day, what a celebration, and what a community!
3
NEIGHBOR NEWS
A big Deerhorn Valley WELCOME to new neighbors, JEN AND JACOB
BORGE of Elena Lane. And let’s not forget their dog, Rocky! Jacob is
in the restaurant industry on Shelter Island (sorry… I forgot to find out
which one.) Jen is finishing up her nursing degree and planning on a
June 2013 graduation. Jacob originally hails from Oregon where he
grew up on an alfalfa farm. He both loves and misses having horses
around. Jen is one of those rare SoCal natives. Welcome, Borges!
The early morning Elena Lane walkers have enjoyed meeting you!
DONNA FOSTER really had a scare of her life. Although she had
never before suffered from asthma, she ended up in the intensive care
unit in an induced coma as the result of a severe attack. But in true
Foster Fashion, she came through with flying colors. Donna was well
enough to go back to work (Foster Flowers in Jamul) AND head off with
hubby, Kevin, to Arizona for their daughter’s wedding. Of course, you
know who brought the flowers! Kevin says it was a perfect wedding
that took place in the mountains north of Phoenix, between rainstorms.
And what a wonderful celebration for the entire Foster family.
Here’s a DV Invitation from JIM NORTON (who’s looking awfully good
these days!) Jim walks mile-long morning loops along Elena Lane, and
would love to invite others to either stroll or fitness-walk. He’s usually
joined by wife, Susie, and neighbor Sandra Ignosci. You can find them
somewhere along Elena Lane every morning from 7:30 to 9:00. C’mon
down (up) and join on in.
It was a bleak honey season this year. The late frost zapped the early
buds, and the bees had little forage with which to build up their
colonies. However, DAVE YARBROUGH collected enough to enter in
the SD County Honey Competition at the Fair this year (winning another
top award for DV), and Sarah Evosevich extracted nearly three gallons
from her hive. DV honey is unique: mild and flavorful with a hint of wild
sage, deerweed, and chamise.
ERIC SKIDMORE from Mother
Grundy is a young man of many
talents. He is building a yurt, a
circular tent of felt or skins used by
Asian nomads. He works
entirely by hand, even to the
Mongolian design details of
the center “crown.” I first met
Eric as a fellow-beekeeper and
was so impressed with his
natural skill at working with bees and hives. He is now learning
falconry, and hoping there might be some experienced falconers out
their for guidance. You can reach Eric at [email protected]
DENISE EDDELMAN writes: “My husband and I live on Bee Valley Rd.
On Sunday, July 22nd my husband rode his motorcycle with a friend.
He had trouble and stopped by the driveway of the last house on
Deerhorn Valley Rd just before Honey Springs. There he found a
bracelet that looks to be solid silver and has a caption twice on the
outside of the bracelet. You can call us at 468-3132.”
ANTLER ALERTS sure appreciates the extra eyes and ears out there,
and the backup support from Jim & Susie Norton, Sandra Ignosci,
Sharon Gladding, and Rob Deason. Thanks also to Jan Koptic, Ron
Janson, Coral Thuett, Yvonne Purdy, Gregg Grimaldo, Phyllis
Dozier, Peter Dyke, and others who’ve alerted us to situations affecting
the community. (I know I’ve missed a BUNCH of you… but your emails
are SO appreciated by us all. Thank you for each and every one. -KH
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POWERLINK FIRE GRANTS
-by Kim Hamilton
SDG&E’s Powerlink is now a reality and
a DV neighbor, welcome or not. The
500KV transmission lines loom just east
and north of Deerhorn Valley.
The switch to this route through our fireprone backcountry was made at the time
we were recovering from the Harris Fire
devastation. We were in disaster mode,
and there was little energy for organized
opposition.
SDG&E describes the Dulzura Fireshed (includes all of Deerhorn
Valley) as being at “extremely high risk from catastrophic fires” that
can result from line-fault sparks that ignite brush. SDG&E said the risk
is “unavoidable,” and they were required to create a Defensible Space
Mitigation Fund as a condition of approval. SDG&E must contribute
yearly to this fund and then distribute
“The presence of the
grants to homeowners “at highest risk.”
overhead transmission line
would create an ongoing
source of potential wildfire
ignitions for the life of the
project. Line faults can be
caused by such
unpredictable events as
conductor contact by
floating debris, gun shots,
and helicopter collisions.
[These] could result in a
large and catastrophic
wildfire, putting 882 or
more households and
129,534 or more acres at
risk. – SDG&E
Unfortunately, when they sent notices
out, many property owners in
Deerhorn Valley were excluded. It
appears SDG&E undercounted the
number of at-risk homes (making their
contribution much less costly). They
used 2008 as their base year; property
without a “habitable structure” was
“ineligible.” As we all remember, in
2008, Harris Fire victims were just
beginning their rebuilding process.
Fewer than 4% of homes had been
rebuilt (mostly mobiles.)
When we alerted the Deerhorn
community to this oversight, residents called the Grants Office, and
200-plus showed up at their Informational Meeting. Happily, fire
victims and others excluded by error were made “eligible.”
We don’t know how many applied for their grants, but here’s a
compilation of the information residents forwarded to The Antler:
WE HEARD FROM OWNERS OF 73 PARCELS
69 APPLICATIONS WERE APPROVED FOR FULL FUNDING
Two parcels were denied part of their project, even though they were
awarded the full amount requested. Projects not approved:
1) removing a wooden solar panel support from roof
2) installing irrigation around the house
4 PEOPLE DID NOT APPLY:
1) Two gave up who were incorrectly labeled “INELIGIBLE”
2) One had difficulty accessing the online process
3) One had no upfront funds to pay for work (We suspect there
are many others who did not apply for the same reason.)
SUGGESTIONS FOR NEXT YEAR’S PROGRAM:
1) Vouchers to help homeowners pay for approved work
2) Earlier, longer timeline to plan and complete work
3) Option to purchase equipment when it is more costeffective than renting.
If you have suggestions or information to share, please write
[email protected] Working together makes us stronger.
DEERHORN VALLEY…
Looking Back
-by Kathie Collins
Is there anyone living in the Deerhorn area who has been here long
enough to remember a small strawberry roan mare jogging down the
old dirt road, ridden by a young girl with a long strawberry ponytail?
We are talking more than a half-century ago when the road was dirt all
the way to 94 and there were no mailboxes on the corner of Mother
Grundy Truck Trail.
That was when my horse, Smokey, and I started riding these hills, only
stopping in 1974 when Smokey “retired” at the age of 22 years.
Smokey was born on the old Bill Nathan ranch, which is now the Kelly's.
I am a Roberts’ great-granddaughter so our property is next to Nathans'
and has been in the family since the
1800’s.
We made many friends on the hill in
the 50’s, 60’s and 70’s. Does
anyone remember Sunny Seamans,
Keith and Roy Winter, Gordon
Jackson, Jerry Wheatcroft, Tony
Jackson, Jimmy Wolfe or Roy and
Rory Wallin?
In days past sugar came in
pressed cones, and the
towering rocks above
Deerhorn Valley Rd. were
called the Sugar Loaves.
These people all lived in Deerhorn
and were the main group of people
we were friends with for those years.
Pit barbecues and dances at the
Lodge were so much fun! Oh, what
a good time we all had!
We spent most of our time
swimming in the dams (with and
without the horses) and going for
long moonlight rides up the then almost-deserted Mother Grundy Truck
Trail. It was so hot in the summer, that for days on end you could only
ride at night.
When it was cool enough we would go toward the ridge over the top of
Barrett Junction and count Bee Valley cattle, checking them for loss or
injuries.
My sisters, Susan and Merry Lynn, and I came up from Chula Vista
every time we had a chance, and our parents, Ed and Ruth Walker, saw
to it we were here often. We usually spent all our summers at the ranch,
and every weekend too. Grandmother and Grandfather lived at this
house for several years, and at the same time Susie Nye lived here just
above us.
When we walked up to Susie's one day, I remember her big, black dog
'Prince' taking on two of the biggest rattlers I had ever seen. He killed
the first one and then went looking for the second, just as if he knew
they traveled in pairs. He was only bitten badly twice, but, oh, how he
hated snakes, and we felt very safe with him along.
When fate sent all three of us Walker girls to live in the Los Angeles
area, and daddy and mother to Simi Valley, we all knew we would feel
no differently about the ranch. We had to move to find work. We had no
choice. But the ranch would always be there.
The road up to Deerhorn from the 94
corridor was long and arduous,
We came back as often as possible, cherishing every minute stolen
from a busy schedule to sit and relax on the porch, with our feet up,
remembering the good times, the good friends.
Few people on the hill recognize us now. It's okay. Our greatgrandfather Roberts would turn over in his grave to see all the people
here now! His wagon took two days to get up the hill from 94. They
had to camp out one night just to make a trip that now takes just
minutes. Those horses had to be strong and versatile. They pulled,
plowed and were ridden.
I wonder if anyone
remembers Eagle's Peak
or the Sugar Loaves? How
about the huge tree that
split Honey Springs Road
in half? Can anyone still
see Mother Grundy?
Black Mountain?
Rattlesnake Creek?
Roberts' Creek? Or the
Old Bee Valley Ranch?
These are all parts of the
mountains and should be
remembered before all the names die out forever.
Please, take care of the mountains. If you are lucky enough to be
able to live up here, be grateful. Treat the hills with kindness. Treat
them gently, for we are here only briefly, and they are the heritage of
the future generations.
EDITOR’S NOTE:
Rob Deason and I had the privilege of joining Kathie Walker Collins,
her sister Merry Lynn and Susie {Norton] on a Sunday drive around
Deerhorn Valley. Her memory served her well as we turned off the
beaten track to follow the trails she once rode on her horse, Smokey.
We heard of the old gold mines, and even rediscovered one (we are
sworn to secrecy on its location). We heard tales of Chinese laborers
being brought across the border and along the caved slopes of White
Mountain, chained together as they were marched north during the
dark of night.
Kathie and her husband, Kerry, are still frequent visitors to Deerhorn
Valley. The old ranch house where her grandparents lived lies at the
upper end of Deerhorn Valley Road. Kathie and her husband Kerry
spend many weekends enjoying the beauty and solitude of our
Deerhorn Valley. -KH
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9-11 MEMORIAL STAIR CLIMB:
LOCAL TEAM SPONSOR IS NUMBER #1 FUNDRAISER!!
-by Karen Koop
On Saturday Sept. 8th 2012, the
SD Firefighter’s Relief Assn.
hosted its second annual 9-11
Stair Climb at the San Diego
Hilton Bayfront Hotel. Teams of
firefighters, regular folks and
individuals challenged
themselves to climb 110 flights of
stairs in honor of those
firefighters who lost their lives
while attempting rescues during
the Sept. 11th attacks on the
World Trade Center. The Trade
Center had 110 flights of
stairs that firefighters and rescue workers climbed dressed in full
gear including oxygen tanks, hoping to help thousands of people
trapped in the buildings.
The Stair Climb at the Hilton Bayfront simulated this amazing athletic
feat while honoring those who gave their lives during their fearless
and brave efforts to save the lives of others. Money raised by the
teams will aid the families of fallen firefighters.
While it’s not mandatory that the teams raise money (each individual
pays an entry fee) there is heated competition among some to see
who can raise the most funds. Deerhorn Valley’s own Sandra
Ignosci sponsored her team for the second year. Her “Ignosci
Posse” came in FIRST place among the many fundraisers, bringing
her team’s total money raised to $
3,361.00!!! Sandra’s team consisted
of 8 firefighters, with leader Lauren
Thiel of Atascadero and team
members from San Miguel, Cal Fire,
Mt. Laguna, and Shelter Valley
stations who dressed in full turnout
gear to make the exhausting climb.
There were a whopping 41 donors
who helped move them far beyond
their $500.00 goal. Congratulations
to Sandra and her team! Well done!!
It was a great privilege for me to volunteer at the Stair Climb along
with fellow DVer’s Jim Norton, Ariele Johannson, Sharon
Gladding, Jackie Connelly, and my daughter Hillary Koop.
Brownie Troop 6743 also joined the effort bringing their energy and
enthusiasm to the event. Our assignment was to be
“Cheer Motivators.” So armed with bright posters and lots of
exuberance, we cheered all of the teams as they ran, walked, huffed
and puffed their way up the 110 flights of stairs at the Hilton. (The
building has 30 flights of stairs, so teams went up 3 ½ times to equal
the 110 flights in the WTC.) It was exciting to root for our “Ignosci
Posse”, especially as they dashed through the finish line with their
sponsor Sandra leading the way! The day was filled with inspiration
and excitement and has inspired a few of us to try to ready ourselves
for the challenge next year!
People of all ages participated, from those in their 80’s to a little
newborn snuggled in her mom’s baby pouch! A moving opening
ceremony with speeches, songs and bagpipes, along with souvenir
booths, food buffet, a beer garden, live music, the awards ceremony,
ladder trucks, and a piece of beautifully mounted rubble from the
World Trade Center rounded out the event.
6
Next year Sandra will again sponsor her team the “Ignosci Posse” as
well as Brownie Troop 6743 and possibly Hillary Koop’s sorority, Team
Delta Delta Delta! Many thanks to Sandra for her gracious generosity.
(I’ll bet she’d happily welcome any donations for next year!!)
Participating with Sandra Ignosci and other DV’ers in the San Diego
Memorial 9-11 Stair Climb was a fun and memorable way to give back
to the families of fallen heroes and remember those sacrifices made by
all first responders on that horrific day eleven years ago.
TEAM IGNOSCI - HONORING THE FALLEN HEROES
WE ARE COMMUNITY
BILL STEVENS, a long-time
DV’er and our local rain
recorder, decided it was high
time for a Swap & Meet. Neighbor and
friend, BOB MORLEY, agreed, and
others had approached him as
well. So in fine Bill Stevens’
fashion, he decided to make it
happen.
He and wife VICKIE arranged for a time and site and postcards for
mailing. Bill posted flyers and left information at key spots from
here to Tecate. He made sure there were porta-potties and spaces
were marked out.
On Sunday morning folks began to roll into the parking area of the
Deerhorn Valley Lodge for a “Swap & Meet.” Bill was there to
collect the $5 from each seller to help with the costs, and (like all
DV events), there was just as much getting-together as there was
selling and buying. In other words, it was a success!
Our FOURTH OF JULY PARADE could have been a Norman
Rockwell painting on the cover of The Saturday Evening Post. No
matter the politics of the moment … we were all just neighbors and
friends, celebrating America’s birthday in fine style!
For all of who have missed passing out (or collecting) treats on
Halloween, there was the FIRST ANNUAL TRUNK OR TREAT.
No one had to examine or discard the homemade treats when it
was your neighbor who’d been baking all day. (ANNE
EVOSEVICH promises to make extras this year!)
Just the other day VICKIE PERAZA called from
Mt. Elena Lane. She had some barley mash from
a local brewer for her chickens, and thought
someone else in Deerhorn might want to share.
Out went the Antler Alert, and PATTI BURKE
was the first to call. “My sister called me as soon as she saw it and
I called Vickie right away and got a trash can full of the delicious
mash for my chicks.”
Now that’s what they call…. COMMUNITY!
So proud to live in Deerhorn Valley!
MOJAVE GREENS: THEY’RE HERE
A sobering development for our backcountry is the recent appearance
of the Mojave Rattlesnake. Better known as the "Mojave Green," this
snake is an highly venomous and very aggressive cousin of our more
common Southern Pacific and Western Diamondback varieties.
Recognize this Deerhorn landmark? Eagle’s Peak (right side) looms
above the Honey Springs junction with Deerhorn Valley Rd. The old
Deerhorn school house sat at the base; during storms students swore
they could hear spirit moans from inside the mountain.
John Klacka on Lyons Valley Road was the first to report a sighting to
The Antler last July:
“On Monday, Irene, who helps out with the plants and animals, was
watering and was almost struck by a Mohave Green Rattler. I heard
they were rumored to be out this way now, but was hoping it was just
that–– a rumor.
This one was a particularly aggressive snake... truly beautiful and so
much green hue in the coloring that I thought it was a garter snake. But
with nine rattles attached to the back, there was no mistake of its being
a rattler.
I suspect this is what killed my llama, Muñeco. It is rumored that their
venom is so poisonous that a single bite is usually fatal for animals and
if a human gets bit and passes out, there is no reviving, it is an ultimate
death sentence. [The Mojave Green’s venom is very high in a neurotoxin which can affect breathing and mobility.]
I told [my] vet, Dr. C, who wanted me to bring it in because she too has
heard the rumor but also was skeptical – but it had long since been
buried. The adjacent neighbors [have] already put down two.”
The Mojave Green's appearance is similar to that of other rattlers: flat,
triangular head, heavy scales, a thick body with a patterned
camouflage pattern and rattles (or a button). But the Mojave has a
greenish tint, in contrast to the normal brown or yellow color of other
rattlesnakes.
The Mojave Green is considered the most dangerous of the various
species of rattlesnakes. Its venom is primarily neurotoxin, which
destroys nerves and nerve tissue. In a high enough dose, neurotoxin
can stop the breathing process.
We all have our own ways of dealing with our rattler neighbors and
understand their important role in rodent control. However, this new
arrival may warrant additional measures. Last 4th of July a 6-year old
boy was bitten at Camp Pendelton where his family was camping.
Kaden Rivera spent more than a week in the hospital and needed 42
vials of anti-venin just to stabilize him. At one point it was feared he
would lose his leg, and even his survival was not assured. Should a
pet be bitten, no effective antivenin is yet available.
If you come across a Mojave Green, our local firefighters are glad to
respond and help dispose of your uninvited guest.
Kingsnakes will kill rattlesnakes. Birds such as hawks, eagles, owls
and ravens will attack Mojave Greens. Finally, some mammals also will
prey upon them. Right now, in late- summer, they are most active in
the morning and evening, and to avoid the midday heat, they’ll seek
shade.
Given the chance, snakes will avoid human contact, and most
snakebites could be avoided if the snake is simply left alone. -KH
“CHIPPER”
OF DEERHORN VALLEY…
-by Greg Alford
We have lots of Barn Owls living and having families on our property.
We’ve even jokingly named our home Wise Old Owl
Ranch. We have several recognizable “couples” who
return each year and take up residence in one of our
four owl boxes. They have squawking kids, teach
them to fly, eat lots and lots of rodents, drop the
skeletal and intact remains below their house and
then move along for a while before returning.
I also feed lots of other wild birds: finches, doves,
woodpeckers and hundreds of hummingbirds. I’ve
come to recognize their distinctive chirps and whistle
sounds. But I was a little surprised a few weeks ago
to hear a bird song or whistle that I didn’t recognize.
When I looked and found the bird, I realized that it was a good looking
Cockatiel...an escapee from someone’s home cage. I went online and
learned what they prefer to eat, and quickly put a bunch of appropriate
food near the fence where I’d seen it perched. I waited to see what might
happen. Sure enough, the bird I’ve named “Chipper” returned and ate.
I’ve since “taught” him his name and believe it or not he comes on
command like a puppy. He seems to consider the fence surrounding our
property to be the limits of his cage; he never strays very far or for a very
long time. Having him around is turning out to be quite a pastime. If
anyone owns this bird, I’d obviously love to reunite them.
_________________
ED NOTE: Greg submitted this article along with a little about himself.
It’s fun to get to know who our neighbors are… beyond the guy we see
weed whacking the property lines or poking along on the John Deere!
I practiced law in downtown SD as a trial lawyer for almost 35 years. At
that point, although I enjoyed my career immensely, I decided to retire at
age 57 and live modestly rather than work lots longer and perhaps be too
tired to enjoy my retirement at some later date. Best decision I ever made.
German Shepherd dogs, photography, motor home travel, huge rose
garden, a newly constructed greenhouse and some significant charity
work now consume my days.
I also am an avid cooking enthusiast and even do a little catering once in
a while. In fact, I’m traveling with a dozen surgeons to Guatemala next
May to prepare their meals while they perform life-saving surgery for
some folks who, without intervention, would either pass or live miserable
lives. I’m delighted to be able to support these docs and indirectly help
some people who are more disadvantaged than I could even previously
imagine. -Greg
7
GET READY FOR FUN AT THE
WE NEED T0RT VOLUNTEERS!
DVCA SECOND ANNUAL
We are forming committees for food, setup and
cleanup. It’s a fun way to get involved… and we
sure could use the help!
CALL Karen Koop for info/reservation/to volunteer at
345-4285 or EMAIL [email protected]
Sunday, October 28th
4:00-7:00 PM
Deerhorn Valley Lodge
[Elena Lane and Deerhorn Valley Rd.]
Please join us for our 2ND year of old-fashioned Halloween family fun!
Decorate your vehicles, dress in costume, and bring treats to pass out
for all the kids.
Hot Dogs, Goodies, Drinks (cheap!)
Popcorn (free!)
PHOTO SPOT!
Kids’ Activity Table
COSTUME PARADE!
Prizes for best child, adult and family costumes.
CAMPFIRE & MUSIC
Kid’s Music & Stories with Grandpa Rob Deason!
PRIZES FOR BEST-DECORATED VEHICLES!
(Come a little early if you want to decorate your
vehicle on site)
WE‘RE EXPECTING A GREAT TURNOUT AGAIN THIS YEAR, SO TO
HELP WITH OUR PLANNING, PLEASE RSVP FOR A SPACE
RESERVATION. [email protected] THANKS!
CLASSIFIEDS
T’ai Ch’i ~ Chuan
DEERHORN VALLEY CLASS
Saturdays 9:30 - 11:00 AM
(619) 916-7634 ~ [email protected]
_______________________________
MARY KAY
Ariele Johannson, Ind. Consultant
(619) 916-7634
www.marykay.com/arielej [email protected]
________________________________________________________
SPURGEON WELL & PUMP
Mike Spurgeon, Owner
(619) 248-1787 Honey Springs Road
_______________________________
DUBÉ VINEYARDS
DR. DARCY YENT: ND~LAc
!
2516 Honey Springs Road
TASTING ROOM OPEN BY APPT
Tel/Fax: (619) 468-0030 [email protected]
________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________
DH TRACTOR #858816
REAL ESTATE RESULTS
Naturopathic Doctor ~ Lic. Acupuncturist
(619) 887-0610 [email protected]
Dave Hradecky - 468-3890
Heavy Brushing - Dozing -Def. Space- Excavation
________________________________________________________
Vicki Beers ~ Marcia Spurgeon
(619) 733-3388 - (619) 807-870
(619) 669-6622
BEACON HILL LLAMA FARM
_______________________________________________________
________________________________________________________
Silver Bracelet with a caption twice around the outside.
Call Denise at 468-3132
Dr. Ruth Baak www.llamajeans.com
Animals - Fiber - Families Welcome
Call for Appt. (619) 468-3074 ~ (760) 715-6644
FOUND:
________________________________________________________
AVON REPRESENTATIVE
Call Now For Your Books
Denise Eddleman - Bee Valley Rd
468-3132
[email protected]
________________________________________________________
FOR SALE:
KEM-TEK 3” POOL CHORINE TABS
(35 lb BUCKET)
Bought the wrong kind last season. DUH.
$20 (Cost $99) Call Kim: 468-3218
THANK YOU TO THIS ISSUE’S WRITERS &
CONTRIBUTORS
Kim Hamilton
Karen Koop
Sandra Ignosci
Jim Norton
Kathie Collins
John Klacka
Ariele Johannson
Greg Alford
Rob Deason
Jerry Williams
Sandra Ignosci
The Antler
Staying Connected ~ Working Together
[email protected]
We will run ads for local Deerhorn businesses and appreciate your donation. Non-business classifieds are free as space permits. Contact Kim or Ariele:
[email protected] to be sure your listing will run in the next issue. When we don’t hear from you, we make the space available for others.